Red Bull has been identified as the team at the center of F1’s front ride-height controversy, with the outfit admitting to the existence of a front bib adjustment device on its RB20 although it insists it cannot be exploited in parc fermé conditions.
This revelation comes amid suspicions from rival F1 teams and increased scrutiny by the FIA over a potential breach of the sport’s technical regulations.
The controversy erupted ahead of this weekend’s US Grand Prix when the FIA announced a clampdown on suspected ride height adjustments, particularly during parc fermé conditions - where cars are restricted from modifications after qualifying and before the race.
The governing body responded to concerns expressed by various teams in Singapore last month about the possibility that one of their rivals may be exploiting loopholes in the rules to adjust the car's ride height under parc fermé conditions.
FIA officials clarified that from the Austin weekend onward, new procedures would be enforced to monitor and seal any devices capable of altering the front bib ride height to ensure they could not be tampered with while under parc fermé.
On Thursday afternoon in Austin, it was revealed that the controversy centered around a device designed by Red Bull that could be adjusted through a change of settings accessible from the cockpit.
This device could potentially allow for alterations to the ride height of the front bib, which could provide an aerodynamic advantage.
However, Red Bull has clarified that the device cannot be modified once the car is assembled and ready to run, making it impossible to exploit under parc fermé conditions.
The team has engaged in discussions with the FIA to address concerns and ensure compliance with the regulations.
“Yes, it exists although it is inaccessible once the car is fully assembled and ready to run," commented a senior team representative.
“In the numerous correspondence we have with the FIA, this part came up and we have agreed a plan going forward.”
While the FIA has not found any evidence that Red Bull has actually adjusted the device during parc fermé conditions, they will continue to monitor the situation closely.
Red Bull has denied any wrongdoing and insists that the device is legal and does not violate the regulations.
The issue has emerged at a tense moment in the championship, with Red Bull locked in a tight battle with McLaren for the Constructors' title with six rounds to go.
Both teams are under close scrutiny, with McLaren itself having faced FIA investigations recently regarding the flexibility of its rear wing, which was dubbed the "mini-DRS."
Following talks with the FIA, McLaren made modifications to its car to comply with regulations.
As the 2024 season reaches its climax, Red Bull’s and McLaren’s technical strategies will be watched even more closely, with both teams looking for every possible advantage in the pursuit of victory.
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